My Gums Are Bigger Than my Teeth?

Question

I feel like every time I smile, you only see my teeth. I learned how to smile without showing gum. The problem is when I laugh you can see my gum more because my smile is wider. It makes me self conscious. How much are veneers Say in manhattan or Connecticut Are there any other options besides veneers?

Jay Neuhaus, DDS · Answer

The first consult you should have is with an experienced and well-trained Cosmetic Dentist. Speak freely with him about your wants and desires and your concerns. Let him coordinate your treatment with any necessary periodontists or oral surgeons, but let the cosmetic dentist be the quarterback of the team.

Brian Dorfman, MD, DMD · Answer

There may be a few reasons for a "gummy smile".  If your upper jaw is is larger in height to the rest of your face and skull, this could be the reason.  You may have excess gingiva and a "gum reduction" as Dr Tau mentioned may be an option.  You must address the correct issue to get excellent results.  IF the wrong treatment is chosen it can wind up an esthetic nightmare.  Have a consultation with a Board Certified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon to review your options. A periodontist can also address a "gum reduction", but not the issue of a larger upper jaw.  Make sure you get at least a second opinion from an oral surgeon if you see a periodontist for the initial consult

Keith Blankenship, DDS · Answer

There are a few options for this treatment.  Most likely you will need "Crown lenghthening" which is where the gums are reduced to "Open" the tooth to reveal the actual tooth.  This will widen your smile and expose your natural teeth as they should be.  Most likely you will need to see a Periodontist who specializes in this. As for veneers and the cost in NYC, I do not know.  I would venture to say they are about $1500 per tooth.  But before going through veneers, see what the Crown Lenghthening does for you and you may only need to bleach your teeth after the procedure. I do not know the visual side of your teeth and how they look.  It may as well be necessary to have veneers depending on the shape of your teeth.  Good luck.  In Manhattan, there are quite a few great dentists who can accomplish this task very easily.   If absolute price is a concern, then you will definitely want to have a consultation with the Periodontist and the COsmetic dentist before going forwad..

Leonard Tau, DMD · Answer

It sounds like you may be a candidate for what is know as gummy smile reduction.  I would consult a periodontist who specializes in treating the type of issue to find out if that is a good option for you.

My Gums Are Bigger Than my Teeth?

Answers (4)

Answer: How to decrease amount of gum showing

Answer: How to decrease amount of gum showing

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My Gums Are Bigger Than my Teeth?

Answers (4)

Answer: How to decrease amount of gum showing

Answer: How to decrease amount of gum showing

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Everything you need to know about Smile Makeover

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